Best Dispersed Camping near Williams, AZ

Multiple dispersed camping options exist around Williams, Arizona within Kaibab National Forest. Garland Prairie Road offers numerous primitive sites with established fire rings approximately 10 minutes northwest of town. The dirt road is generally accessible to most vehicles when dry, though deep mud forms after rain. Sites range from open meadows to pine-forested areas, with increased privacy the further in you travel.

Dogtown Lake Road provides additional free camping about 5 miles outside Williams. Both areas operate under standard Forest Service regulations with a 14-day maximum stay. No amenities are available—campers must pack in water and pack out all waste. According to one visitor, "Plenty of pull-off spots along a long road into the forest and you get to choose wherever you want to camp." Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer months, and travelers should check current regulations before burning. Cell service varies throughout the area but remains strongest near major roads and clearings.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Williams, Arizona (125)

    1. Garland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-8200

    "Dry camping with no services but just 10 minutes from Williams. Be respectful and kind and pack out your trash. Very quiet at night and didn’t have an issue locating a level spot during my stay."

    "We just kept driving along a pretty rugged dirt road until we found a site. Turned out to be great. Not a person in sight and very wooded."

    2. Kaibab National Forest

    25 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-8200

    "I scout a site with the Jeep when we camp on public land. The road straight in is very rocky and the area had about 10-12 rigs already parked."

    "pretty flat and a bit rocky but easy to find a spot or clear a spot. Here end of April and lots of people here. Met someone who say she comes here often from Williams and safety never an issue."

    3. Dogtown Lake Road Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    4 miles

    "This was our first time boondocking in the forest of Williams, AZ.  "

    "About 10 mins from Williams."

    4. FR 222 Dispersed

    36 Reviews
    Bellemont, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Nice flat areas for camping. Very upsetting to see most of the sites are littered with trash."

    "Didn’t see any wildlife but I’m sure they are around! No amenities so come prepared for dry camping. Flagstaff is about 15 min away and had good AT&T service and was able to work remotely."

    5. Jo Bangles Dispersed Campsite Kaibab NF

    4 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 856-5600

    "Best in free dry camping."

    "Tall pines made for lots of separation for dry camping. But beware of rude campers with loud music."

    6. Edge of the World (East Pocket)

    55 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "I rented a camper van for my desert road trip with my daughter, and read about this spot on Dyrt, the pictures look breathtaking and I really want to try and get here to see it for myself."

    "Finding the area was slightly a challenge but the drive was more than worth it. We went with huge puddles and mud so I recommend a high clearance 4x4 vehicle for the drive up. Views were stunning"

    7. Dogtown Road Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-1418

    "It’s a great place to stop when visiting Williams, Flagstaff, and Grand Canyon. Dirt road is in good shape. It is very dry and fire danger sign said high so no camp fires burning this week."

    "It was so packed that on Thursday we found a spot but had to fend off people trying to park next to us constantly."

    8. Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area

    52 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    29 miles
    Website

    "Due to the ease of access from Sedona and Flagstaff this campground sees a lot of action."

    "Campground Review: Couple things to say about this campground... it's dispersed but in numbered lots and unless you have a high clearance 4x4 you must enter from West (89A)."

    9. Coleman Lake Camp

    2 Reviews
    Williams, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-5600

    "Great dispersed camping in the forest . There are beautiful meadows also. Great trail system for our side by side."

    "ATVs run all day but the sunset and lake views were gorgeous and temp at this elevation was perfect."

    10. super secret camp spot 1

    2 Reviews
    Parks, AZ
    9 miles
    Website

    "Rock quarry right next to the site is great for shooting some rounds. There’s a mini lake next to the spot as well. Beautiful area."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Williams, AZ

724 Reviews of 125 Williams Campgrounds


  • Megan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 9, 2025

    Fire Rd 688 - Dispersed

    Quiet wooded camp site

    Easy to navigate even towing a vehicle behind our RV. Quiet, wooded site away from road noise. Our site had a fire pit and wood provided when we pulled in. Approx 11 miles from the town Grand canyon village/ South rim of the grand canyon. 14 days consecutive stay limit. Dry camping. Leave no trace.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Walnut Canyon USFS Dispersed Camping

    NO DISPERSED CAMPING ALLOWED!!!

    As of May 1, 2023 the Coconino National Forest Service has closed down many dispersed camping areas around the city of Flagstaff. This area is included in that. You can still drive off-road and explore during the day when the Walnut Canyon National Monument is open, but no camping and no camp fires are allowed.

  • Angela G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2021

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great Boondocking/Car Camp Spot

    This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping, but we decided against popping up our camper here and just car camped instead. Not super dispersed, but the access road is accessible to most vehicles. However, some side road pulloffs are definitely better suited for 4WD vehicles. I would suggest walking the route first to make sure your particular vehicle can make it.

    I loved this campsite due to its proximity to the three National Monuments near Flagstaff: Wupatki, Walnut Canyon, and Sunset Crater Volcano. We decided to stop at these monuments on a whim during our National Park tour and they did NOT disappoint! I highly recommend visiting all three, and perhaps ending with Walnut Canyon, as it was my favorite. This campground is great for visiting all three, as each monument is only 10-25 minutes away. They are all incredible and very worth the visit if you’re in northern AZ for the staple Grand Canyon.

  • Megan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 9, 2025

    Fire Road 688

    Quiet wooded camp spot

    Very quiet wooded camp spot off of the highway, away from road noise. Shades by all the large trees. A fire pit with fire wood was already here when we pulled up. Lots of extra spots along the dirt road. Depending on your length of rig could fit several rigs within a mile stretch of dirt road. There were other campers along the road. Be respectful and leave no trace!!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great experience for dispersed camping with family

    10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument off a side dirt road. We are a family of 4 in a 26’ RV and were able to find a beautiful, private, remote spot on a Sunday with gorgeous trails to explore. Would absolutely come back and recommend!

  • Chris W.
    Aug. 1, 2023

    Dispersed Camping around Sunset Crater Volcano NM

    Beautiful area outside of Sunset Crater

    This is a really nice area on forest road 545 comma just outside of sunset crater national monument. when you turn to go to Sunset Crater as soon as you go over the cattle guard take a left and follow that road around lots of camping spots, the road isn't really bad there's a few washed out areas but my van was able to manage it

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping

    XXL Rig Friendly!

    We have a 30ft Skoolie (2002 bluebird) and tow a 17ft cargo trailer conversion and there were countless spots for us to fit in without having to drop the trailer! This area is VAST and breathtaking. There were a lot of campers when you first enter, but if you drive around you will find something perfect for your setup no doubt.

    The only thing I would say to be mindful of and I say this with regard to pets is that there were jeeps, trucks and 4x4s driving past occasionally during the night and they FLY down the gravel roads. We were not at all bothered by it - they’re out there having a good time enjoying the mountains and forests in their way just like we are but just keep your doggos and cattos close 🐾

    The roads are gravel and they are pitchy and rutted in areas. Some roads have a several inches droop off too but our bus did great through it. If you pay attention and arrive in daylight you’re absolutely fine. There are VERY few spots to turn around and to take the loop is several miles of gravel road out of the way so just look at the satellite on maps, take it slow and enjoy the view. We only had the time to stay one night but we will absolutely be back. CAUTION: elevation is 7500ft. If you are prone to altitude sickness be wary. You ascend from about 5000 to 7000 pretty quickly. Other than that watch the weather. The roads flood and wash out with rain from the mountains so be alert and plan accordingly and you will be fine. ENJOY and remember to LEAVE NO TRACE 🫶🏻

  • Mallory D.
    May. 25, 2018

    Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping

    Rough terrain, busy

    The road into the campgrounds are very rough, small cars are not advised. There are only 10-14 sites available (first come first serve) depending what time of the year you arrive, since a pair of endangered owls nest between some of the campsites for a few months and will have the sites closed down. Be cautious of the stage of fire alert going on, when I went no campfires were allowed so I used a propane stove.

    The surrounding areas are beautiful and a family of deer made appearances regularly. Also its free, so it was nice to avoid a hotel cost for the night.

    The cons are that its hard to reach camp due to rough roads, very few campsites, and it seems the local teenagers really enjoy partying and screaming at all hours of the night. I assume you're better off on a weekday when all the kids are still in school.

  • Toree M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2023

    FR689 Dispersed Camping

    Quiet, scenic, easy to locate

    We are in a 34 footer! The drive, while do-able, is not necessarily preferable in something 20+ feet long. Narrow dirt road, closer to one lane than two, and no guard rails. We just took it slow and that worked fine for us! It has been pretty quiet (even compared to other BLM sites we’ve visited this month). It’s also January which absolutely plays into the noise/traffic level! It’s chilly but nothing a sleeping bag can’t help! Really pretty walks, and hikes, and lots of room for our pups and kiddos to play. Super easy to navigate, which is always a big plus! We’re camping almost exactly where the pin is dropped. We’ve been able to visit Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and just come back here at night to camp so location isn’t bad either.


Guide to Williams

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Williams, Arizona, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while finding their perfect spot away from the crowds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Williams, Arizona

  • Many areas, such as FR 222 Dispersed, allow for campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars with friends and family.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; some sites like Garland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping may have muddy spots during the wet season, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas pristine, especially in popular spots like Kaibab National Forest.

Dispersed campers should check out the Lava Tube Cave Path

  • The Lava Tube Cave Path on Forest Road 171 offers a unique hiking experience, with plenty of space for camping nearby.
  • This area is accessible for various vehicle types, making it a great choice for families and those new to dispersed camping.
  • Be aware that amenities are limited, so plan to bring your own water and supplies for a comfortable stay.

Scenic spots for wildlife enthusiasts

  • Dogtown Lake Road Dispersed Camping is known for its beautiful surroundings and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Campers can enjoy fishing at nearby Dogtown Lake, which is just a short drive away, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • Keep an eye out for local fauna, as many campers have reported sightings of deer and other wildlife in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Williams, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Williams, AZ is Garland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping with a 4.2-star rating from 21 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Williams, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 125 dispersed camping locations near Williams, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.